How to pass a motion?

Asked by: Markus Upton  |  Last update: June 1, 2026
Score: 4.2/5 (20 votes)

To pass a motion, a member must propose it ("I move that..."), another member must second it ("I second the motion"), the chair states the motion, the group discusses it, and then votes, typically requiring a majority (more than half) of the votes cast to pass, according to parliamentary procedure like Robert's Rules.

What to say to approve a motion?

➢ Say, “The motion has been made and seconded.” ➢ “All in favor of the motion, say 'Aye. '” (Count or make note of votes.)

How do you pass a motion in Robert's Rules of Order?

The following summary will help you determine when to use the actions described in Robert's Rules. A main motion must be moved, seconded, and stated by the chair before it can be discussed. If you want to move, second, or speak to a motion, stand and address the chair. If you approve the motion as is, vote for it.

How to pass a motion at a meeting?

Motion: To introduce a new piece of business or propose a decision or action, a motion must be made by a group member ("I move that......") A second motion must then also be made (raise your hand and say, "I second it.") After limited discussion the group then votes on the motion.

What is the proper way to make a motion?

Once you have the floor, state the motion as “I move (state your motion here).” 2. Once the chairperson has heard your motion, any member may second it by saying, “I second the motion,” indicating approval of the motion. A motion may not be discussed or voted on unless it is seconded.

Online Intro Session To Chairing Effective Meetings

28 related questions found

How does a lawyer file a motion?

You, or your attorney on your behalf, will file a Notice of Motion which includes a list of requests for the court to rule upon. You will also submit a Certification listing the reasons you are making these requests of the Court and why the Judge should grant your relief, effectively your testimony.

What are the 4 examples of motion?

Motion can be of the following types:

  • Linear motion: Motion in a straight line.
  • Circular motion: Motion in a circular path.
  • Rotatory motion: Motion about an axis.
  • Periodic motion: Motion that repeats itself after a certain time.
  • Random motion: Motion that has no specific pattern.

What two words must you use when making a motion?

When making a motion in a formal meeting (like under Robert's Rules), the two essential words you must use are "I move" or "I move that," followed by the specific action you propose, like "I move that we adjourn" or "I move that we approve the budget," requiring a second and then a vote for discussion. 

What is the 40 20 40 rule for meetings?

The 40-20-40 meeting rule is a productivity guideline suggesting you spend 40% of your total meeting effort on preparation, 20% on the actual meeting, and the crucial remaining 40% on effective follow-through (actions, analysis, and communication) after the meeting, ensuring decisions turn into results and maximizing meeting ROI. It shifts focus from just the meeting time to the entire lifecycle, emphasizing planning and post-meeting accountability for success.
 

How to write a good motion?

Remember that it should be clearly and concisely worded. Think through your motion carefully and determine exactly what it is you want to accomplish with it. Include details and support it. Anticipate questions and objections and answer them in your motion.

What are common meeting mistakes?

1. Lack of a Clear Agenda2. Failure to Circulate Materials in Advance3. Poor Time Management During Meetings4. Ineffective Boardroom Dynamics and Engagement5.

How to present a motion at a board meeting?

Making a meeting motion follows this 5-step process:

  1. Recognition. The first step is to be recognized. ...
  2. State the Motion. Once you have the floor, state your motion clearly and concisely. ...
  3. Second the Motion. Another attendee must second the motion before it can be discussed or voted on. ...
  4. Debate and Discuss. ...
  5. Vote.

What are the six steps of any motion?

The steps in presenting a motion

  • A member obtains the floor and makes a motion. ...
  • Another member seconds the motion. ...
  • The chair states the motion. ...
  • Members debate the motion. ...
  • The chair puts the motion to a vote. ...
  • The chair announces the results of the vote and what will happen with the motion.

How to write a simple motion?

Here's a simple step-by-step guide to help you get started:

  1. Step 1: Understand the Purpose of Your Motion. ...
  2. Step 2: Research Court Rules and Requirements. ...
  3. Step 3: Start with a Clear and Concise Title. ...
  4. Step 4: Draft the Introduction. ...
  5. Step 5: Present the Relevant Facts. ...
  6. Step 6: Provide Legal Arguments.

Can the chair second a motion?

4. The Chair has the same right to make or second a motion or to debate as the other Board Members.

What happens if a motion is not seconded?

A motion requires a second to be considered. If there is no second, the matter is not considered.

What are the 5 P's of a meeting?

The 5 Ps of effective meetings provide a framework for productive sessions, generally including Purpose, Participants, Preparation, Process, and Payoff (or Product/Progress), ensuring meetings have clear goals, the right people, prior planning (agenda), structured discussion, and clear outcomes like action items or decisions. This structure prevents wasted time by focusing on objectives, defining roles, facilitating engagement, and documenting results.
 

What are the 10 golden rules for meetings?

Effective meeting ground rules focus on punctuality, preparation, respect, focus, and participation, ensuring everyone arrives on time, stays engaged with the agenda (not phones), listens actively without interrupting, tackles issues (not people), shares airtime, and that clear actions are recorded, making meetings more productive and inclusive. 

What is the 5 second rule in meetings?

The 5 Second Rule (as it's used in meetings) is a facilitation technique where you ask a question then wait a full 5 seconds before moving on. Once you get to 4 seconds, the silence becomes a little uncomfortable.

What is the best example of motion?

Examples of Motion

Our daily activities, like walking, running, closing the door, etc. involve motion. There is a change of position of the object involved in these activities. The flow of air in and out of our lungs is also an example of motion.

What do you say when a motion is passed?

The chair puts the motion to a vote

2. The chair says: The question is on the adoption of the motion that ... As many as are in favor, say 'Aye'.

When to say "through the chair"?

The concept of saying “through the chair" plays a significant role in maintaining order, fairness, and respect. This practice, which requires members to direct their comments and remarks to the chairperson rather than to each other, aligns closely with the core principles of Robert's Rules of order.

What are 10 types of motion?

The types of motion are:

  • Oscillatory motion.
  • Rotational motion.
  • Translational motion.
  • Uniform motion.
  • Non- uniform motion.
  • Periodic motion.
  • Circular motion.
  • Linear motion.

What are the laws of motion?

In the first law, an object will not change its motion unless a force acts on it. In the second law, the force on an object is equal to its mass times its acceleration. In the third law, when two objects interact, they apply forces to each other of equal magnitude and opposite direction.

What are three main types of motion?

There are three main types of motion: Linear motion occurs when an object moves in a straight line. Circular motion occurs when an object moves in a circular path. Rotational motion occurs when an object rotates around an axis.